The information in this article is up to date for tax year 2024 (returns filed in 2025).
Wondering if you can file taxes for someone else? You’ll be glad to know it’s perfectly legal, as long as you have their permission. Whether you’re helping a friend, family member, or dependent, you can assist them with tax preparation, but they will still need to sign and file the return themselves unless you have official authorization, like a Power of Attorney.
Here’s what you need to know:
When to file taxes for someone else
There are many situations when someone might need help filing taxes. You may need to file for:
- A dependent who earned income
- Aging parents or elderly relatives
- A friend who doesn’t speak English
- A deceased family member’s final tax return
What you need
Tax preparation requires gathering important documents. If you’re helping someone else file their taxes, make sure to collect the following information and records: This includes income statements like W-2s or 1099s, records of deductible expenses, and any relevant tax identification numbers. Double-check all details to ensure accuracy, as missing or incorrect information can lead to tax filing mistakes to avoid. Reviewing the forms thoroughly before submission can save time and prevent potential complications with the IRS.
- Name, birth date, tax ID, Social Security number (SSN)
- Income and investment records (e.g., W-2s, 1099s, or 1099-DIV)
- Charitable donation receipts
- Expense records (medical, education, etc.)
- Self-employment or business documents (e.g., 1099-NEC)
- Homeowner information (property tax, mortgage interest)
You’ll also need a copy of their previous year’s tax return, which can be retrieved through the IRS or a third-party e-filing service like ezTaxReturn.
Additionally, if you’re helping them receive a tax refund, you may need their bank account details for direct deposit.
How to file taxes for someone else
If you plan to help someone file taxes, keep the following in mind:
- You can file up to five tax returns electronically, including for others.
- The taxpayer remains ultimately responsible for the accuracy of their tax return.
- As a non-professional, you cannot charge a fee for your tax services.
Filing taxes for a dependent
If you have a child who earned income, they may need to file a tax return. You can assist with the process or handle it completely if they don’t understand the steps involved.
Make sure to note on the tax return that they are a dependent on your return. Do not include their income on your own return. Their taxes should be filed separately.
Filing taxes for an elderly parent
Many adult children assist their aging parents with tax preparation. If you’re helping an elderly relative file their taxes, be aware that seniors often have different filing requirements. For example:
- Single seniors over 65 don’t need to file unless their income exceeds $16,550.
- Married seniors over 65 only need to file jointly if their combined income exceeds $32,300.
Keep in mind that Social Security benefits can be taxable based on their overall income level. Be sure to look out for specific tax credits and deductions for seniors, such as:
- Elderly or Disabled Tax Credit
- Medical Expense Deduction
- Increased Standard Deduction for seniors
- Retirement Savings Contributions Credit
Claiming a parent as a dependent
If you’re the primary caregiver for a parent, you may be able to claim them as a dependent on your tax return, which can simplify the process. To claim your parent as a dependent, you must meet certain requirements, including:
- You are not a dependent of another taxpayer.
- Your parent is not married or doesn’t file a joint return.
- You provided more than half of their financial support during the year.
- Your parent’s gross income was below $5,050.
- Your parent is not the dependent of someone else.
If you qualify, you may also be eligible to file as Head of Household, which can offer a better tax rate and higher standard deduction.
Signing the tax return for an elderly parent
If your parent cannot sign their tax return, you can sign it on their behalf—but only if you have Power of Attorney or are their court-appointed guardian. You’ll need to file IRS Form 2848 to provide authorization.
Filing taxes for a deceased family member
If a family member passes away, you may still need to file their final tax return as part of settling their estate. This responsibility usually falls to the executor of the estate or surviving spouse.
Important note: Tax returns for a deceased person are due by the regular filing deadline of the following year, and you may need to file multiple returns, depending on the date of death.
For instance, if the person passed away in January 2024, you may need to file returns for 2023 and 2024.
If the deceased person owes taxes, the estate will be responsible for paying those taxes, but you can arrange a payment plan with the IRS if necessary.
How to file taxes for someone else with ezTaxReturn
If you’re helping someone else file taxes, ezTaxReturn is an easy and reliable option. Here’s how to get started:
- Create an account: You’ll need a separate account for each person you’re filing taxes for.
- Enter their tax ID: Carefully enter the person’s name, birth date, and SSN or ITIN.
- Follow the step-by-step process: ezTaxReturn will guide you through the filing process, making sure you don’t miss any deductions or credits.
- e-File the return: Once completed, submit the return electronically. You’ll receive IRS confirmation within 24 hours and can expect a refund within 21 days.
Filing taxes for someone else doesn’t have to be stressful. With ezTaxReturn, you can ensure their taxes are filed accurately, and the best possible refund is secured.
The articles and content published on this blog are provided for informational purposes only. The information presented is not intended to be, and should not be taken as, legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers are advised to seek appropriate professional guidance and conduct their own due diligence before making any decisions based on the information provided.
